2024 Randy Mandy Adelaide Hills Pinot Blanc

93 Points Silver rating from James Halliday Wine Companion 2025 (Special Value Recommendation)

From the Paracombe vineyard, wild fermented in old French oak, full mlf, bâttonage over winter and spring, with six months on lees. A light gold, with a slight haze, this is a textural, full-flavoured and fleshy take on the grape. With poached apple, dried peach, apricot frangipane tart and quince, there are plenty of layers here, and a lean into measured exoticism. But it’s not heavy, and there’s a fine drive of acidity keeping it fresh. A high-toned nuttiness and dirty martini brininess complete the picture. It’s a little left of centre, but far from left field, and it’d be great at table. Comté cheese comes to mind.

Marcus Ellis

Published 24 February 2025